Today in TechCrazy futuristic vortex gun can disperse smoke to aid firefighters
A futuristic-looking gun that looks like it belongs in an Austin Powers movie may one day help firefighters save lives. Vortex guns that can expel rings of smoke aren't new. But a company called Batelle designed one that can shoot electrified smoke rings that can be used to clear the way for firefighters during rescue missions by dissipating smoke.
So how do donuts of air clear the way for firefighters in a blazing inferno exactly? The charge in the smoke rings transfer to ambient smoke particles that end up dropping to the ground, effectively opening up paths for rescuers. But aside from its potential use as a tool for firefighters, the gun could also be used to apply pesticides to targets from a distance by firing chemically-laden smoke rings instead of charged ones. The pesticides in the rings adhere to anything they encounter, making the gun a very effective method to get rid of insect infestations.
Just as it could be used to fire pesticides, the smoke rings could also be mixed with gases to keep civil unrest in check. If the smoke rings are mixed with pepper spray, for instance, the particles stick to a target's skin and clothing. This particular application could, however, be abused, and we'd rather see the gun be used for saving lives.
[via LiveScience, Geekosystem]
This article was written by Mariella Moon and originally appeared on Tecca
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